James is a proud First Nations Australian (Wiradjuri - NSW). Prior to being appointed to the role of Chief Operating Officer for Generation One at the Minderoo Foundation he was the CEO of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Australia’s largest Aboriginal member-based organisation.
James is passionate about education, jobs, and the opportunity for economic independence and prosperity for First Nation Australians. In 2011, he was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding service in improving opportunities for economic participation and employment of Indigenous people.
James has devoted his career to working for improved life outcomes for First Nations peoples, those who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness, people with a Disability and older Australians. James believes that people who are disadvantaged must have a seat at the table when decisions are being made about them.